The greying rock band is preparing to celebrate its 15th year on the circuit with an extensive tour, new releases and nostalgia for rock fans
(From left) Mohan Kannan and Kaustubh Dhavale aka Koco
You have to witness the camaraderie of Mohan Kannan and Kaustubh Dhavale aka Koco to understand the reason Agnee has stuck together. Since 2007, the band has shaped the horizon of Indian rock with their earthy and powerful rock ballads. For Kannan, Koco, drummer Hrishikesh Datar bassist Chirayu Vedekar, and percussionist Varun Venkit, the last 15 years have been a whirlwind.
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“It feels like yesterday when we got together and started the band. Suddenly now, we have grey hairs in our beards,” lead guitarist and producer Koco laughs. Vocalist Kannan adds that the thought of performing all of their released numbers made him think if he should carry oxygen tanks onto the stage. They may be greying, but they remain rock musicians. The band will kick off their 15th anniversary celebrations with the performance at Rule 34 on May 12.
Kannan adds that the band still lives for the thrill of performing on stage. He adds genially, “This horrible human, Koco, taught me that you should make a band with people you want to hang out with off stage. I don’t like saying good things about Koco, but I have to now.” Koco is quick on the backhand laughing, “You are not usually right, but this time you are.”
The last 15 years has seen the band members go on their own individual journey, extending their own musical experiences. Kannan has grown to be a familiar voice in Hindi cinema music, while Koco has added music production to his virtuoso guitar skills. “We have worked with a few musicians and they have come in with their experience. It is always learning that eggs you on,” the guitarist explains. While he plays down his vocal ability, Kannan is quick on the reprimand. “He sings really well.” before mockingly scolding his partner, “Don’t fish for compliments. You knew I would come in and say this.” As for the concert, the band is breaking new ground. While the band has been quiet for the last 5 years, 2022 will see a whole new anthology release. It all starts on May 15, Kannan reveals. “We are launching our YouTube channel with a new song, Kya main kya tu, written by Amitabh Bhattacharya.”
The song, he reveals, was ready a year ago, but the band chose to hold back in the pandemic. It is the first of a whole new anthology with a 25-song list up for release. “The song is about relationships and about being with each other. It is the perfect Agnee sound as we have come to expect it,” Kannan tells us. For fans, the fire rages on.
On: May 12, 8 pm onwards
At: Rule 34, Charkop, Kandivali West.
Log on to: insider.in
Cost: Rs 500 onwards
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